Question:
This is a question about whether or not a device for testing A1c at home is a
good idea. My doctor schedules the test maybe every 6 months....sometimes less
often. Just saw in LA Times a notice that a test kit is available without
prescription for doing A1c tests at home....costs about $25. Made by Metrika
Inc.
Would this be a good thing to have?
Answer:
I think it's an excellent idea. Most docs today wouldn't even think of
doing a GTT unless the FBS was high. I have a friend whom I think is
diabetic, but her FBS is usally normal (over 100, but under 110). I've
tested her myself with my meter and she will get her BG up to the 170's
after a normal meal (no excess sugar), but she'll come back down to a
reasonable level (125) within 3 hours. She's courting diabetes for sure.
Her a1C might not be above 6.0, but I'll bet it's close and I think she
needs to do something NOW, but unless she's staring at a test result she
won't do anything. Unfortunately her doctor doesn't seem to see any
reason to do a GTT. Look, 175-180 postprandial is 'way too high for a
'normal' person. I just want to save her becoming full-blown diabetic, I
even bought her a Therasense meter and a set of strips. She won't use
it. But if her doctor told her to she would. She doesn't have good
medical coverage, so she won't push her doc for more tests. Maybe this
new kit will help.
